1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1985 Mitsubishi Starion
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mitsubishi Starion. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mitsubishi Starion would be higher. At 2,797 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 1985 Mitsubishi Starion. (102 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1985 Mitsubishi Starion. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 635 kg more than 1985 Mitsubishi Starion. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mitsubishi Starion. (164 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mitsubishi Starion.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1985 Mitsubishi Starion | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Mitsubishi |
| Model | SL | Starion |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2797 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1760 kg | 1125 kg |
